Why most of European countries are hesitant to build tall buildings

 

This reluctance is due to a number of factors that are anchored on planning and development, culture, and history. 

Here are some key reasons:

#1 Cultural and Historic Conservation:

Most European cities especially those that are ancient like Paris, Rome and Prague place high value on the architectural past. 

Such cities have old structures, small roads, and medieval planning that does not allow the construction of tall towering skyscrapers in terms of architectural and historical compatibility. 

For instance, in Paris, the height restriction has been applied for many years to preserve the skyline composed of such buildings as Eiffel Tower and other historic structures.

#2 Tight Control of Zoning and Planning Regulations:

European cities for instance have strict building codes that govern the design and size of buildings being developed in any city. 

Most governments desire to keep the cities’ architectural integrity and preserve cultural values by forbidding the construction of new tall buildings where they may interfere with the architectural continuity.

Height restrictions are common, and planning authorities do not build tall structures but rather ensure that the city looks beautiful.

#3 Concern with Sustainable Development and Quality of Life:

It is for this reason that many European urban planners pay close attention to the sustainability of the environment, availability of open spaces and general quality of life. 

In this case, instead of developing large buildings, cities aim to build urban environments that are easily negotiable by foot, bicycle, or public transport and are close to nature. 

High rises are viewed to cause increased traffic density in the cities, which is contrary to the concept of sustainability in European cities.

#4 Density and Configuration of Cities:

Unlike some of the large cities in the United States or Asia many European cities for example do not have the same population density that requires the buildings to go up. 

European cities, on the other hand, grow in breadth, that is, numerous small dense districts with low-rise buildings are separated by green zones – parks, squares, public facilities. 

Tall structures are not as important in planned compact urban areas with functional, small number of storey buildings that make efficient use of the available space.

#5 Opposition from the Local People:

People living in European cities always object the construction of high rise buildings stating that the buildings affect the character, appearance and values of the neighborhood. 

Many people remain committed to preserving the conventional image of a city, and some do not like the interference of tall towers.

#6 Protection of Landmarks and Skyline:

In many European countries, there are famous landmarks and cityscapes that form the core of the city. 

Skyscrapers may block views of such landmarks as Eiffel Tower or change the profile of historical cities such as London, Paris, or Vienna, so there is a great pressure not to allow new high rise construction in the central zone.

In conclusion, the rejection of tall buildings in Europe is grounded in their wish to preserve cultural identity, historic urban fabric, sustainable development, and people’s quality of life.